While progress has been made in reducing child mortality in sub-Saharan Africa, maternal mortality continues to pose a persistent challenge. And to achieve the Millennium Development Goals by 2015, the public health community must continue to focus on ways to reduce these deaths—the vast majority of which are avoidable.

This Malawi Case Study illustrates how health system strengthening efforts have positively affected maternal health interventions and outcomes in the country. Drawing on an extensive review of both published and unpublished literature, data from large household surveys, and information obtained from interviews with key informants, it describes the health systems challenges faced by the Malawian government in the year 2000 and how the system evolved over the subsequent decade.

The lessons learned are important to future efforts to improve maternal health in Malawi and throughout sub-Saharan Africa.

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Broad Branch is an independent firm dedicated to improving the lives of the poor in developing countries. With expertise in innovative financing mechanisms and experience working at the international policy level, BBA combines technical leadership and rigorous research, to develop high impact financing solutions, understand their impact, and improve the effectiveness of development funding.

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The growing Broad Branch team, founded in 2005 by Rena Eichler, is comprised of individuals with diverse backgrounds in development, health, economics, research, and strategic communications. Our aim is to make the world a healthier, more equitable place. Meet our experts >

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Health System Strengthening in Senegal

Broad Branch Associates is a partner in a five-year (2011-2016) U.S. Agency for International Development project to help strengthen health systems in Senegal. Learn more >